Collaboration Brings Hope, "as funding allows"

According to NAMA President, Ellen Bello, the inspiration for their entire organization was given by the youth on the Rosebud and Pine Ridge Reservations over 12 years ago.  Therefore, through these programs, NAMA endeavors to come full circle and assist those who are most in need on those two reservations this winter.

As a point of information, Federal LHEAP and Tribal Assistance Programs each offer low-income families approximately $300 in fuel credit per year. With the current rate of propane at $2.20 per gallon, this provides only 136 gallons – about enough fuel for 2 to 4 weeks (depending on the weather). 

Additionally, propane companies have raised their required minimum amounts of propane to be purchased before delivery to a home.  Currently, the minimums for delivery are $125 to $355, depending on the company.  This makes families struggle even harder to accumulate enough funds at one time to ensure a delivery.

To assist these elders, disabled, or seriously ill Lakota, donations may be made to either Link Center Foundation or NAMA through their respective websites (by secure credit card or bank debit card transactions) or by mail to either organization.  Donations should to be marked "heating assistance program" in the memo section of any check.

Donations may also be made through Network for Good which is powered by GuideStar, the leading source of reputable information on United States Non-Profits.  Simply visit their website, and type Link Center Foundation or Native American Music Association under "charity name."

Applications for the elders and disabled are available at the Link Center Foundation website and the NAMA website as well as at local centers on the reservations like the district CAP (Community Action Program) Offices on the Pine Ridge Reservation.  Applications are also available through Native Village Publications at their website

Link Center Foundation screens and processes all emergency assistance applications sent to both organizations.  Then, Link Center Foundation and NAMA decide which applications shall be funded by their respective organizations.  Each organization maintains and administers its own funds.  All payments are made directly to the fuel vendors. 

At the current time, approximately $150 worth of fuel is being allotted per qualified application, as funding allows.  For propane users, this provides approximately 7-10 days of heat, depending on weather conditions.

Please join Link Center Foundation and NAMA in reaching out to those who need our help.  Your contributions will provide a little extra hope and warmth for the elders, the ill, and disabled on the Lakota reservations.  Help us work within the circle to make this a better world for all.

Link Center Foundation

Att:  Emergency Heating/Utility Assistance Program

P.O. Box 576 – Firestone, CO 80520-0576

Phone and FAX: 303-833-6520  Toll Free Phone: 888-220-1653

Website:  www.LinkCenterFoundation.org

Email:  admin@LinkCenterFoundation.org

Phone:  212-228-8300                FAX: 646-688-6883

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